Mexico City Museums Shut Down: Security Contract Controversy Sparks Outrage

Mexico City Museums Close Due to Security Contract Fiasco Mexico City is facing a cultural crisis as several major museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle, have been forced to close due to a lack of security personnel. The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), responsible for managing these sites, recently contracted a private security firm, but the number of guards provided proved insufficient. This has resulted in the temporary closure of these important cultural institutions, leaving both tourists and local residents frustrated. "Los trabajadores del museo responsabilizamos al director general y al INAH por dejar a la deriva la custodia y seguridad del patrimonio cultural de la nación, así como la seguridad del personal que labora en los recintos del INAH," reads a sign posted on the doors of one of the closed museums. This statement reflects the deep discontent among museum workers who feel abandoned by their leadership. The situation is further complicated by the revelation that the new head of INAH security, Pedro Alberto Velázquez, faces accusations of sexual harassment from his time at the National Immigration Institute. This raises concerns about the selection process and the overall governance of the INAH. The INAH's decision to contract a private security firm, seemingly to cut costs, has backfired spectacularly. The resulting shortage of guards has led to the unprecedented closure of these vital cultural heritage sites, highlighting the need for improved management and accountability within the organization. The swift resolution of this issue is crucial to prevent further damage to Mexico City's cultural landscape.